What type of insecticides are generally considered safer for the environment?

Biorational insecticides are considered safer for the environment because they are derived from natural sources or are designed to target specific pests with minimal impact on non-target organisms and the ecosystem as a whole. These insecticides often have lower toxicity levels compared to traditional synthetic insecticides, making them less likely to cause harm to beneficial insects, wildlife, and humans. They also tend to degrade more quickly in the environment, reducing the risk of long-term ecological effects.

In contrast, conventional insecticides can be more harmful due to their broad-spectrum activity and higher toxicity levels. Systemic insecticides, while effective for certain pests, can pose a risk to non-target species through uptake by plants and subsequent accumulation in the food chain. Contact insecticides target pests on contact but may also impact beneficial organisms indiscriminately. Overall, the use of biorational insecticides aligns with Integrated Pest Management (IPM) principles, focusing on sustainability and environmental protection.